Advice to My 18 Year Old Self

As we journey through life, we typically look back and contemplate the advice we would give our younger selves. In this case, I want to look back just one year, to my 18-year-old self. There aren't monumental things I have learned in the past year but there are things that I now know are important to prioritize. Being a senior in college, I realize the time that we have is always limited and you will not be in the same place forever. I am deeply saddened to know that college is not the rest of my life and because of that realization, there are some things I would have told my freshman year self.

1.) Embrace Failure and Learn From It

Mistakes happen. Mistakes happen. Mistakes happen. Learn from all of them. I can't express enough how badly I wish I could tell my younger self that the failure doesn't matter and she won't remember it in the coming years. It's college, sometimes you fail a test, have a bit too much to drink, or let a friend down. Take the experience and learn from it but do not give it too much value.

2.) Live in the Present Moment

It IS important to plan for the future, but don't miss the present. Cherish every experience, all relationships - new and old-, and every opportunity that comes your way. Life is just a collection of moments and it is in those moments where we are truly happy.

3.) Prioritize Your Own Mental and Physical Well-Being

It is really easy to forget that we are the most important people in our lives. When we're younger, we usually lean into the whole selfish parts of our character, but once we hit college it changes a bit. New friends and new places make it seem like you have to say yes to everything, and a lot of times that's to please others. What is important to remember is that you can't even be your best self for someone if you aren't prioritising your health. Regularly eating, moving, sleeping, and taking a second alone can be all you need.

4.) Nurture relationships

Surround yourself constantly with positive influences. It is these years where your relationships will begin to shape the rest of your life. It is not about the quantity of relationships, but the quality. Treat everyone like you want to be treated and absolutely say yes to meeting new people.

If I could have a conversation with my 18-year-old self, I would share all of these things with them. I want to squeeze her and tell her to embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and never stop growing.